When an unexpected accident leaves you with facial injuries, the path to recovery requires immediate attention from skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons who understand both the functional and cosmetic complexities of facial reconstruction. Facial trauma affects not only your appearance but also vital functions like breathing, chewing, and speaking, making prompt and precise treatment essential for the best chance of healing and long-term well-being.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, our experienced team provides comprehensive facial trauma care with the advanced surgical techniques and compassionate support you need during this challenging time. We understand the urgency of facial injuries and work closely with emergency departments and referring physicians to ensure you receive timely, coordinated care that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term recovery goals. Our comprehensive oral surgery procedures include specialized treatment for all types of facial trauma, from simple lacerations to complex fractures requiring reconstructive surgery.
Understanding Facial Trauma Injuries
Facial trauma includes a wide range of injuries to the soft tissues and bones of the face, including the jaw, nose, cheeks, forehead, and eye sockets. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, motor vehicle accidents are a significant cause of facial trauma injuries, followed by sports injuries, falls, and physical altercations. The severity can extend from minor cuts and bruises to complex fractures involving multiple facial bones.
Soft tissue injuries may involve lacerations, puncture wounds, or burns that require careful repair to minimize scarring and restore function. These injuries often accompany more serious bone fractures and need immediate attention to prevent infection and promote proper healing.
Facial bone fractures present more complex challenges, as they can negatively impact your ability to speak, eat, and breathe normally. The most common facial fractures involve the nose, jaw, cheekbones, and orbital bones around the eyes. Each type of fracture requires specific treatment approaches to restore both function and appearance.
Emergency Treatment and Assessment
When facial trauma occurs, immediate medical evaluation is crucial to assess the full extent of injuries and rule out potential complications. Our team works with emergency departments to provide rapid assessment and determine the appropriate treatment timeline for your specific injuries.
Initial treatment may involve controlling bleeding, managing pain, and stabilizing any airway concerns. We conduct thorough examinations, including advanced imaging studies, to identify all fractures and soft tissue damage. This comprehensive assessment allows us to develop a detailed treatment plan addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery goals.
Time-sensitive injuries, such as certain jaw fractures or dental trauma, require prompt intervention to achieve the best outcomes. Our doctors maintain hospital privileges at Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgery Center, Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, and Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, ensuring access to advanced surgical facilities when needed.
Surgical Treatment Options
Facial trauma treatment varies significantly based on the type and severity of injuries. Minor soft tissue lacerations may require careful suturing using specialized techniques to minimize visible scarring. More extensive wounds might need tissue grafting or reconstructive procedures to restore normal appearance and function.
Fracture treatment depends on the location and complexity of the break. Simple, non-displaced fractures may heal with conservative management and careful monitoring. However, displaced fractures typically require surgical intervention to properly realign bone segments and restore facial contours.
Complex reconstructive procedures may involve:
- Internal fixation using titanium plates and screws to stabilize fractures
- Bone grafting to replace missing or severely damaged bone segments
- Soft tissue reconstruction to repair extensive lacerations or tissue loss
- Dental implant placement to replace teeth lost due to trauma
- Coordination with other specialists for comprehensive care
Recovery from facial trauma surgery requires patience and adherence to post-operative instructions. Our surgical staff provides detailed care instructions and monitors your progress closely to ensure optimal healing with minimal complications.
Recovery and Long-Term Care
The healing process following facial trauma treatment varies depending on the degree of your injuries and the complexity of the required procedures. Initial recovery focuses on managing swelling, controlling pain, and preventing infection. Most patients experience considerable improvement within the first few weeks, though complete healing may take several months.
Long-term considerations include potential complications such as nerve damage, changes in sensation, or the need for future reconstructive procedures. Our team provides ongoing support and guidance throughout your recovery journey, collaborating with other specialists as needed to address complex cases that require multidisciplinary care.
Physical therapy or TMJ treatment may be recommended to restore normal jaw function and movement patterns. We also provide guidance on protecting your face from future injuries and maintaining optimal oral health during the healing process.
Contact Goodove Oral Surgery for Facial Trauma Care
Facing facial trauma can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons combine advanced surgical techniques with compassionate care to help restore both your function and confidence. As your hometown oral surgeons who have remained independent while others have gone corporate, we prioritize building personal connections and providing individualized attention to each patient’s unique needs.
Our highly trained surgical staff creates a genuinely caring environment where your comfort and safety are our top priorities. All team members are CPR certified, and we maintain the highest standards of patient monitoring during and after procedures. Whether you need immediate trauma care or are seeking consultation for ongoing treatment, we’re here to provide the skilled, compassionate care you deserve. Contact our Virginia Beach office at (757) 412-2002 or our Chesapeake location at (757) 819-7002 to schedule your consultation.
